Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gained quite an understanding. London is an energetic city, notable not just for its varied living options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing present options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whilst platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my search for housing, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I wanted to keep my travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 per day. Instead of using the bus or tube for short trips, I chose to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structures of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London, especially near popular attractions, is high. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Being located near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps streamline errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students search for elements of familiarity from their homeland while in London. Southall, in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples reflect just a few of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London largely depend on your preferences and requirements. As you search for a new living space in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.